He continued: "Due to the terrible damage caused in this part of the region by the floods last month it is highly likely that this area will be targeted by unscrupulous people with the intention of overcharging residents who are desperate to get their repairs done.

"We need information from the public if they are victims or if they suspect rogue traders are operating in their area.

"I would encourage them to contact us or their local council to report any suspicious activity.

"We need to let the criminals who commit these offences know that we will not tolerate it.

"The operation will involve speaking to lots of tradespeople and many of those are likely to be bona-fide and I am sure they will be happy to co-operate with us."